Wellbutrin SR and Weight Loss

Some people may experience side effects during treatment with Wellbutrin SR, and weight loss can be one of those side effects. In previous studies, up to 19 percent of people taking Wellbutrin SR lost more than five pounds. It is not entirely clear why Wellbutrin SR can cause weight loss. However, the drug has several other side effects -- such as loss of appetite and nausea -- that may contribute to weight loss.

An Overview of Wellbutrin SR and Weight Loss

Wellbutrin SR® (bupropion SR) is a prescription medicine used for the treatment of depression (also known as major depression or clinical depression). There are a number of possible side effects of Wellbutrin SR, and weight loss appears to be one of them. For some people, this may be a good thing. For a lot of people, however, unintended weight loss can be a problem.

How Common Is Weight Loss With Wellbutrin SR?

In previous studies, up to 19 percent of people taking Wellbutrin SR lost more than five pounds. People taking higher doses of Wellbutrin SR were more likely to lose weight. Although weight loss may be a desirable side effect for some people, too much weight loss can be a problem for others.

Why Does Wellbutrin SR Cause Weight Loss?

It is not entirely clear why Wellbutrin SR can cause weight loss. Wellbutrin SR can often cause a loss of appetite, nausea, and vomiting -- all of which may contribute to weight loss. Often, these side effects go away with time. Let your healthcare provider know if these side effects do not go away over time. Also, since weight gain can be a depression symptom, treating the depression can also lead to weight loss.

If you are experiencing too much weight loss with Wellbutrin SR, be sure to let your healthcare provider know.

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